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The Forever Marked #3
Son of a Gun: A Marked Men and The Point Crossover
Heavy is the head that inherits the crown.
The only thing on Daire Archer’s mind when she pulled a disappearing act on Christmas was proving she was worthy of being her father's daughter. She was born an Archer, which was a blessing and a curse, and Daire was determined to show everyone she deserved to carry the legacy that came with her name.
There is power in a name, and being an Archer meant Daire needed to do better, to be better. At least, that’s what she thought she needed, until a boy from nowhere—with a name that meant nothing—showed her that she was already pretty great just the way she was.
Campbell has always rejected everything concerning his maniacal father and his troubled past. When he left Nowhere, he was certain he wanted a nice, quiet life free from the only things he'd ever known: violence and bloodshed. He thought he needed to be a better man. He wondered if there was a kinder, gentler version of himself under his thick armor of scars and tattoos.
It wasn't until he started chasing Daire Archer all over hell and back that Campbell realized he needed to be a man who was better at being bad than everyone else in his troubled world.
Because now, he had a problematic princess to protect. One with an uncanny ability for finding trouble. Where Daire is concerned, being a good guy isn't necessary.
The only thing on Daire Archer’s mind when she pulled a disappearing act on Christmas was proving she was worthy of being her father's daughter. She was born an Archer, which was a blessing and a curse, and Daire was determined to show everyone she deserved to carry the legacy that came with her name.
There is power in a name, and being an Archer meant Daire needed to do better, to be better. At least, that’s what she thought she needed, until a boy from nowhere—with a name that meant nothing—showed her that she was already pretty great just the way she was.
Campbell has always rejected everything concerning his maniacal father and his troubled past. When he left Nowhere, he was certain he wanted a nice, quiet life free from the only things he'd ever known: violence and bloodshed. He thought he needed to be a better man. He wondered if there was a kinder, gentler version of himself under his thick armor of scars and tattoos.
It wasn't until he started chasing Daire Archer all over hell and back that Campbell realized he needed to be a man who was better at being bad than everyone else in his troubled world.
Because now, he had a problematic princess to protect. One with an uncanny ability for finding trouble. Where Daire is concerned, being a good guy isn't necessary.
338 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2023
About the author
Jay Crownover
104 books14.2k followersJay Crownover is the International and multiple New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men Series, The Saints of Denver Series, The Point and Breaking Point Series, and the Loveless, Texas series. Her books can be found translated in many different languages all around the world. She is a tattooed, crazy haired Colorado native who lives at the base of the Rockies with her awesome dogs. This is where she can frequently be found enjoying a cold beer and Taco Tuesdays. Jay is a self-declared music snob and outspoken book lover who is always looking for her next adventure, between the pages and on the road.
GUYS!!! I finally have a newsletter, so if you want to sign up for exclusive content and monthly giveaways you can do that right here:
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You can email me at: JayCrownover@gmail.com
GUYS!!! I finally have a newsletter, so if you want to sign up for exclusive content and monthly giveaways you can do that right here:
https://www.jaycrownover.com/subscribe
You can email me at: JayCrownover@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
August 25, 2023
Son of a Gun is book 3 of the Forever Marked series by Jay Crownover. It is a standalone new adult romance, told from both POV with a happy for now ending.
Tropes:
✔️ enemies to lovers
✔️ new adult
I find myself grappling with a range of emotions as I reflect on this book. In my personal life, I make a conscious effort to avoid passing judgment, recognizing its potential harm. It's curious, then, how this narrative managed to evoke such a complex response from me, likely because it resonated deeply with my own experiences.
As a mother with children roughly the same ages as Campbell and Daire—23 and 19 years old respectively—I found Daire's actions to be a source of persistent frustration throughout the story. Reflecting on her mother's relatively restrained reactions, I can't help but acknowledge that my response might have been considerably less measured.
Stepping back from my immediate emotional reaction and adopting a more objective viewpoint, I appreciate the skillful execution of character growth in the narrative. Daire and Campbell's personal journeys were undeniably tumultuous, but their combined efforts not only brought out the best in each other but also led them to discover genuine happiness together.
I must commend Jay Crownover for seamlessly weaving crossover elements into this book. Fans of both the Forever Marked series and The Point series will undoubtedly relish the well-placed cameos. Importantly, those who are familiar with either one, or even neither, need not worry about feeling lost within the narrative.
"Son of a Gun" elicits a spectrum of reactions from me, owing to its unexpected personal resonance. While Daire's actions raised my parental eyebrows, the careful development of characters and their transformative journey is undeniable.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
Tropes:
✔️ enemies to lovers
✔️ new adult
I find myself grappling with a range of emotions as I reflect on this book. In my personal life, I make a conscious effort to avoid passing judgment, recognizing its potential harm. It's curious, then, how this narrative managed to evoke such a complex response from me, likely because it resonated deeply with my own experiences.
As a mother with children roughly the same ages as Campbell and Daire—23 and 19 years old respectively—I found Daire's actions to be a source of persistent frustration throughout the story. Reflecting on her mother's relatively restrained reactions, I can't help but acknowledge that my response might have been considerably less measured.
Stepping back from my immediate emotional reaction and adopting a more objective viewpoint, I appreciate the skillful execution of character growth in the narrative. Daire and Campbell's personal journeys were undeniably tumultuous, but their combined efforts not only brought out the best in each other but also led them to discover genuine happiness together.
I must commend Jay Crownover for seamlessly weaving crossover elements into this book. Fans of both the Forever Marked series and The Point series will undoubtedly relish the well-placed cameos. Importantly, those who are familiar with either one, or even neither, need not worry about feeling lost within the narrative.
"Son of a Gun" elicits a spectrum of reactions from me, owing to its unexpected personal resonance. While Daire's actions raised my parental eyebrows, the careful development of characters and their transformative journey is undeniable.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
August 19, 2023
I got tired of waiting for the paperback to come out, so I decided to buy it on Kindle and finally start it. I wasn’t expecting it to read in one reading especially since I was kind of tired, but guess what? I did it. I stay up past 2am to finish it and Jay… We need to talk like right now hahahaha
I started this book without any expectations because I know with Jay’s books, you never really know where it will go with only the blurb and boy are you in for a ride.
This book is a crossover between characters from Marked Men and The Point and I really like those crossovers and this book was just a perfect blend of the two worlds.
The interaction between Daire and Campbell seemed to come so naturally between the two of them and I feel like Daire was really what he needed even without knowing he needed it because he is so used to be the protector and it showed throughout the book.
I liked how each character seemed to be different and alike at the same time. I loved that Daire got her book because seeing everything going through her mind ever since the accident spoke volume and how she felt and then how everything was handled; it just gives you a new perspective into why she felt the way she did and the reason she needed to go.
I also loved how Campbell needed to follow her even if he wasn’t thrilled about it because without knowing, she forced him to deal with things he might have not dealt with because he didn’t feel like he deserved it.
They clearly needed each other, and it showed and every little things they did or said or went through together.
I also enjoyed seeing old characters from the Point in this and I needed to remind myself that they got older because it confused me, and I had to stop and remind myself… they are older; it’s normal hahaha
And that ending? Okay, I will stop there because yeah, the ending will make you need the next book and I don’t mean maybe… I really mean it; you WILL need the next book.
There are some characters that were talked about, and I was like… I feel like their story could be interesting and would like to learn more about them; maybe in the future, Jay would be open to do some small novellas about them and short stories if they ever inspire her.
Overall, I highly recommend that you fall back in love with the Marked Men series and then follow it with the Forever Marked series about their kids because they are just everything. I really love how Jay tackles hard subjects in her books in a way that makes you understand more and feel for each character.
I started this book without any expectations because I know with Jay’s books, you never really know where it will go with only the blurb and boy are you in for a ride.
This book is a crossover between characters from Marked Men and The Point and I really like those crossovers and this book was just a perfect blend of the two worlds.
The interaction between Daire and Campbell seemed to come so naturally between the two of them and I feel like Daire was really what he needed even without knowing he needed it because he is so used to be the protector and it showed throughout the book.
I liked how each character seemed to be different and alike at the same time. I loved that Daire got her book because seeing everything going through her mind ever since the accident spoke volume and how she felt and then how everything was handled; it just gives you a new perspective into why she felt the way she did and the reason she needed to go.
I also loved how Campbell needed to follow her even if he wasn’t thrilled about it because without knowing, she forced him to deal with things he might have not dealt with because he didn’t feel like he deserved it.
They clearly needed each other, and it showed and every little things they did or said or went through together.
I also enjoyed seeing old characters from the Point in this and I needed to remind myself that they got older because it confused me, and I had to stop and remind myself… they are older; it’s normal hahaha
And that ending? Okay, I will stop there because yeah, the ending will make you need the next book and I don’t mean maybe… I really mean it; you WILL need the next book.
There are some characters that were talked about, and I was like… I feel like their story could be interesting and would like to learn more about them; maybe in the future, Jay would be open to do some small novellas about them and short stories if they ever inspire her.
Overall, I highly recommend that you fall back in love with the Marked Men series and then follow it with the Forever Marked series about their kids because they are just everything. I really love how Jay tackles hard subjects in her books in a way that makes you understand more and feel for each character.
August 14, 2023
I would maybe lean a little more towards 3.5 stars on this one. I have read all of the Marked Men series and the Forever Marked books so far while the 2nd gen books are solid reads I felt myself connecting a lot more with the characters from the Marked Men series.
Daire Archer is seen as the princess in the book with her dad being the king Rule Archer. No one seems to notice that being an Archer comes with a lot of pressure for Daire. In this book she is trying to find herself and figuring out what she wants to do with her life. Daire is also fearless, and suborn, and doesn’t take crap from anyone so her personality keeps things interesting.
Campbell is the mysterious guy with a dark past. He ends up going on the adventure with Daire to help her escape the pressures of her life but dark things from Campbells past keep coming back to haunt him as well.
This book was darker than the Marked Men series for sure but sounds on the lighter side of the Point Series by Jay as well. Overall a good read but some of the pacing felt off. I’m hoping the last book in the Forever Marked series is a little more similar to the original Marked Men series.
Note: I read this as an ARC copy and this is my unbiased and honest opinions.
Daire Archer is seen as the princess in the book with her dad being the king Rule Archer. No one seems to notice that being an Archer comes with a lot of pressure for Daire. In this book she is trying to find herself and figuring out what she wants to do with her life. Daire is also fearless, and suborn, and doesn’t take crap from anyone so her personality keeps things interesting.
Campbell is the mysterious guy with a dark past. He ends up going on the adventure with Daire to help her escape the pressures of her life but dark things from Campbells past keep coming back to haunt him as well.
This book was darker than the Marked Men series for sure but sounds on the lighter side of the Point Series by Jay as well. Overall a good read but some of the pacing felt off. I’m hoping the last book in the Forever Marked series is a little more similar to the original Marked Men series.
Note: I read this as an ARC copy and this is my unbiased and honest opinions.
August 18, 2023
Nous sommes dans le 3ème tome de la saga Forever Marked et outre les personnages de la saga Marked Me, nous retrouvons des personnages de The Point, et ce pour notre plus grand plaisir. J'ai adoré suivre Daire et Campbell qui n'ont pas eu la même vie mais qui font tous les deux face au poids de la culpabilité.
Brfe, je ne vous en dis pas plus mais j'ai adoré ce nouveau tome. C'est un plaisir de revoir d'anciens héros tout en sachant que leurs enfants vivent eux aussi leurs propres tournments. Jay Crownover aborde des thématiques fortes par le biais de ses personnages et ce retour à The Point et ses environs fut des plus délicieux. Le prochain tome sera consacré à Zowen, le cousin de Daire.
https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
Brfe, je ne vous en dis pas plus mais j'ai adoré ce nouveau tome. C'est un plaisir de revoir d'anciens héros tout en sachant que leurs enfants vivent eux aussi leurs propres tournments. Jay Crownover aborde des thématiques fortes par le biais de ses personnages et ce retour à The Point et ses environs fut des plus délicieux. Le prochain tome sera consacré à Zowen, le cousin de Daire.
https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
August 23, 2023
3.5 stars. This was a pretty good read, but not my favorite of the series. Son of a Gun is book three in the Forever Marked series, a second generation series spin-off of the Marked Men. This book in particular is a crossover with The Point series as well. Son of a Gun is Daire Archer and Campbell's book. Daire is the daughter of Rule and Shaw (from Rule) and Ry's sister (from book one in this series). She carries a lot of guilt for Ry's accident that she feels she is the cause of. She is hard on herself, but feels like everyone treats her too kindly to assuage her guilt. Daire wants to get away from the family that she finds smothering for awhile to find herself. She takes off on Christmas eve alone. Her frantic parents can't find her and finally ask for help from her Uncle Benny, a family friend with ties to the underworld and the Point. Benny contacts Campbell and asks him to go after her. Campbell is a mysterious guy who has been working as a nanny for Daire's friends (from book two). He also has ties to Benny's world and a history. He is able to find Daire and they go on a road trip, where feelings develop between them. Afterwards, they discover that these two opposites have built a bond and helped each other find themselves along the way.
I liked the story in Son of a Gun. I did, however, find it a little slow at times and felt the pacing was off. This book has a lot of references to past books in The Point and Marked Men, along with other series. It is stated in the Author's note that it can be read as a standalone, but I didn't feel that was quite accurate. I have read all of Ms. Crownover's books, though it has been a while, and I couldn't remember a lot of the characters and details that I felt were needed. I was confused at times. Still, I liked Campbell and Daire together and thought they made a good match. Daire could be a little immature and reckless, which could be a tad irksome at times. But I was happy they found each other as they both were a little lost beforehand. I would have liked a tad more resolution and security for their relationship. Overall, though, I enjoyed this book. Son of a Gun has suspense, romance, some moral grayness, friendship, family and love. I am enjoying this series and looking forward to more from it and Ms. Crownover in the future.
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
I liked the story in Son of a Gun. I did, however, find it a little slow at times and felt the pacing was off. This book has a lot of references to past books in The Point and Marked Men, along with other series. It is stated in the Author's note that it can be read as a standalone, but I didn't feel that was quite accurate. I have read all of Ms. Crownover's books, though it has been a while, and I couldn't remember a lot of the characters and details that I felt were needed. I was confused at times. Still, I liked Campbell and Daire together and thought they made a good match. Daire could be a little immature and reckless, which could be a tad irksome at times. But I was happy they found each other as they both were a little lost beforehand. I would have liked a tad more resolution and security for their relationship. Overall, though, I enjoyed this book. Son of a Gun has suspense, romance, some moral grayness, friendship, family and love. I am enjoying this series and looking forward to more from it and Ms. Crownover in the future.
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
September 1, 2023
These 2 should not have worked, yet the more time they were together they did. I liked how Daire brought fun into Campbell's life and he brought a different way to see things in her. It was interesting how both families were not really happy to the interest between them and warned them away. Yet it didn't stop them. I like seeing where they will go from here.
Two things that were very interesting to me.
#1 - Loved Daire going after the apprenticeship and what happened when she was outed. She really played that the right way.
#2 - This book felt like a love letter to the authors other series that all are so loosely connected, it was great fun to see that and it makes me want to do a re-read of them all!
Two things that were very interesting to me.
#1 - Loved Daire going after the apprenticeship and what happened when she was outed. She really played that the right way.
#2 - This book felt like a love letter to the authors other series that all are so loosely connected, it was great fun to see that and it makes me want to do a re-read of them all!
August 17, 2023
Son of a Gun is where the 2nd generation Marked Men meets The Pointe. I was a little surprised because the Pointe is a darker series, but it worked. I haven't read much of The Pointe, but it wasn't an issue; however, I don't think I got all the cameos and references. This is certainly an "opposites attract" story because Daire and Campbell are about as different as two people can be. Daire has had a privileged life for sure. Honestly, sometimes she does things that are just dumb and immature. But, she loves her family and is just trying to figure out who she is.Campbell has not had any privilege in life. He is trying to do whatever necessary to survive and protect his younger siblings. This involved some less than honorable and legal things, but it was for the right reasons. He and Daire are just so different. Their romance is slow burn because while there is attraction, they just don't have anything in common on the surface.
Son of a Gun is a character driven story. There is danger, but the focus of the story is really Daire and Campbell. Fans of flawed characters will love this book!
POV: dual 1st
Tears: a few
Trope: opposites attract
Triggers: none
Series/Standalone: series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
authors like Kristen Ashley, Aurora Rose Reynolds, Abbi Glines...then you will probably like Son of a Gun!
Son of a Gun
See full review on The Book Disciple
August 17, 2023
4.5 stars
I have been waiting patiently for this book since Fortunate Son when we really started to get to know Daire. She has a lot going on and a lot to figure out as she navigates her early adulthood as an Archer.
Daire Archer has always felt like she wasn’t held accountable for her actions, that her family made excuses for her and let her get by too easily. She is a little listless as she isn’t sure what she wants to do as an adult. After her brother’s accident, she has felt increasing guilt at the circumstances that caused him to have to change his dreams. As Christmas approaches, she decides the only thing she can do is run away to find herself.
Campbell might have an in with the Archer, having helped Hyde and Remy with their baby, but he is still an outsider with some pretty scary connections. When Daire goes missing, a family friend sends him to go find her. But what should have been a quick find and return trip, turned into a multiday, multi state road trip as Cambell has to jump to help his sister as well.
I loved the way these two were around each other from the beginning. From a shaky trust built via tracking devices and unexpected connections, these two built an attraction that started from a bit of animosity. But as they find more connections and similarities, they begin to each let down their walls a little bit.
My favorite parts of this book were the ones where Marked Men and The Point really crossed over, with some perfect cameos and support from old friends. I loved the way the author carefully crafted connections between the families (blood and found) of Campbell and Daire. Each time a new connection was revealed and the characters joined the story, I reveled in the new information and the return of a previous favorite character. This story perfectly tied two of Crownover’s worlds together in a way that made absolute sense for both worlds.
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I have been waiting patiently for this book since Fortunate Son when we really started to get to know Daire. She has a lot going on and a lot to figure out as she navigates her early adulthood as an Archer.
Daire Archer has always felt like she wasn’t held accountable for her actions, that her family made excuses for her and let her get by too easily. She is a little listless as she isn’t sure what she wants to do as an adult. After her brother’s accident, she has felt increasing guilt at the circumstances that caused him to have to change his dreams. As Christmas approaches, she decides the only thing she can do is run away to find herself.
Campbell might have an in with the Archer, having helped Hyde and Remy with their baby, but he is still an outsider with some pretty scary connections. When Daire goes missing, a family friend sends him to go find her. But what should have been a quick find and return trip, turned into a multiday, multi state road trip as Cambell has to jump to help his sister as well.
I loved the way these two were around each other from the beginning. From a shaky trust built via tracking devices and unexpected connections, these two built an attraction that started from a bit of animosity. But as they find more connections and similarities, they begin to each let down their walls a little bit.
My favorite parts of this book were the ones where Marked Men and The Point really crossed over, with some perfect cameos and support from old friends. I loved the way the author carefully crafted connections between the families (blood and found) of Campbell and Daire. Each time a new connection was revealed and the characters joined the story, I reveled in the new information and the return of a previous favorite character. This story perfectly tied two of Crownover’s worlds together in a way that made absolute sense for both worlds.
August 17, 2023
⭐ 4.5
Reading this story (this whole series, actually) felt like going back to a time when I didn't care about anything, when all I did was read, and that's when I read Marked Men, and it became one of my favorite series ever. I enjoyed reading the story of Daire (Rule and Shaw's daughter) and Campbell, I feel that Jay's writing has changed but has that essence that she gives to each of her characters that works very well for me. Deire runs away from home on Christmas to find herself because she thinks he's a bad Asher, especially with what happened to her brother and she thinks it's her fault (spoiler: it's not) and Campbell goes after her at his uncle's request, here they begin this journey where they get to know each other and clarify that Campbell has a "bad side" he wants to leave behind and his stay in Denver help him to do that. I liked the story of these two both: together and individually, each one has their demons but since Daire knows what he wants with Campbell it fills me with surprise but I liked that, seeing the family dynamic (which i love), how there isn't so much drama between the two of them, how THEY TALKED and how they found themselves was the best of all.
It's always a pleasure to return to this world and I tell you I can't wait for the next book and especially for the Rule movie in 2024.
Thanks to Jay Crownover and Wordsmith Publicity for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review 📚!!
Leer esta historia (toda esta serie en realidad) se sintió volver a una época donde no me preocupaba por nada, donde lo único que hacía era leer y fue en ese tiempo donde lei Marked Men y se volvió una de mis series favoritas de la vida. Leer la historia de Daire (hija de Rule y Shaw) y Campbell me gusto, siento que la escritura de Jay ha cambiado pero tiene esa esencia que le da a cada uno de sus personajes que para mi funciona muy bien. Deire se escapa de su casa en navidad para encontrarse a ella misma porque cree que es un Asher malo, más con lo que le pasó a su hermano y cree que es culpa de ella (spoiler: no lo es) y Campbell va tras ella por petición de su tio, aqui ellos empiezan este viaje donde se van conociendo, aclarando que Campbell tiene un “lado malo” que quiere dejar atrás y su estadía en Denver lo estaba ayudando hacer eso. La historia de estos dos tanto juntos como individuales me gustaron, cada uno tiene sus demonios pero como Daire sabe lo que quiere con Campbell me llena de asombro y eso me gusto, ver la dinámica familiar, como no hay tanto drama entre ellos dos, como HABLARON y cómo se encontraron ellos mismos fue lo mejor de todo.
Volver a este mundo siempre es un placer y les digo que no puedo esperar al siguiente libro y sobre todo a la película de Rule en el 2024.
Reading this story (this whole series, actually) felt like going back to a time when I didn't care about anything, when all I did was read, and that's when I read Marked Men, and it became one of my favorite series ever. I enjoyed reading the story of Daire (Rule and Shaw's daughter) and Campbell, I feel that Jay's writing has changed but has that essence that she gives to each of her characters that works very well for me. Deire runs away from home on Christmas to find herself because she thinks he's a bad Asher, especially with what happened to her brother and she thinks it's her fault (spoiler: it's not) and Campbell goes after her at his uncle's request, here they begin this journey where they get to know each other and clarify that Campbell has a "bad side" he wants to leave behind and his stay in Denver help him to do that. I liked the story of these two both: together and individually, each one has their demons but since Daire knows what he wants with Campbell it fills me with surprise but I liked that, seeing the family dynamic (which i love), how there isn't so much drama between the two of them, how THEY TALKED and how they found themselves was the best of all.
It's always a pleasure to return to this world and I tell you I can't wait for the next book and especially for the Rule movie in 2024.
Thanks to Jay Crownover and Wordsmith Publicity for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review 📚!!
Leer esta historia (toda esta serie en realidad) se sintió volver a una época donde no me preocupaba por nada, donde lo único que hacía era leer y fue en ese tiempo donde lei Marked Men y se volvió una de mis series favoritas de la vida. Leer la historia de Daire (hija de Rule y Shaw) y Campbell me gusto, siento que la escritura de Jay ha cambiado pero tiene esa esencia que le da a cada uno de sus personajes que para mi funciona muy bien. Deire se escapa de su casa en navidad para encontrarse a ella misma porque cree que es un Asher malo, más con lo que le pasó a su hermano y cree que es culpa de ella (spoiler: no lo es) y Campbell va tras ella por petición de su tio, aqui ellos empiezan este viaje donde se van conociendo, aclarando que Campbell tiene un “lado malo” que quiere dejar atrás y su estadía en Denver lo estaba ayudando hacer eso. La historia de estos dos tanto juntos como individuales me gustaron, cada uno tiene sus demonios pero como Daire sabe lo que quiere con Campbell me llena de asombro y eso me gusto, ver la dinámica familiar, como no hay tanto drama entre ellos dos, como HABLARON y cómo se encontraron ellos mismos fue lo mejor de todo.
Volver a este mundo siempre es un placer y les digo que no puedo esperar al siguiente libro y sobre todo a la película de Rule en el 2024.
August 14, 2023
Note: This review is for an ARC and is my unbiased opinion.
4.5 Stars
Look at Jay Crownover not only giving us second generation of Marked Men but also some influence from The Point. I love it! It was fun to get pieces of both worlds in this book. It was just as emotional as the first two books in this series, plus it had a darkness that only The Point can bring. The combination meant a highly entertaining journey for both Daire and Campbell.
Daire is the "princess" of the Archer family. She's been going through a rough patch thanks to an accident that took her brother's football career. Daire doesn't know how to move on from the guilt she feels, so she decides to escape from her problems. She's a mess, impulsive, and trying to figure out what's next for her. My favorite thing about her was her big heart.
Campbell is a mystery. He wants to forget his past and make a better future for himself and his siblings. He thinks he has it all figured out, but being sent after Daire to bring her safely home throws a wrench in his plans. Campbell had been through so much and I loved seeing him reach for the good in life.
Campbell and Daire don't seem like a likely match to most, but their interactions and ability to accept each other for who they are makes them work perfectly. There was a love and tenderness between them that I adored. Even when things got dark, there was a lightness coming from them. I wanted the best for these two.
As an added bonus to Campbell and Daire's romance, I got several cameos from some of my favorite Crownover characters. I loved that I got to see what these characters were up to, but that they didn't take over the book. It was so much fun - even when one or two of the characters might have made me a teensy bit mad. ;)
This book was a great read, whether you're a fan of all of the included series or if you wanted to jump in here. I'm now anxiously awaiting Zowen and Ashton's book.
You can find this review and others like it at A Novel Glimpse .
4.5 Stars
Look at Jay Crownover not only giving us second generation of Marked Men but also some influence from The Point. I love it! It was fun to get pieces of both worlds in this book. It was just as emotional as the first two books in this series, plus it had a darkness that only The Point can bring. The combination meant a highly entertaining journey for both Daire and Campbell.
Daire is the "princess" of the Archer family. She's been going through a rough patch thanks to an accident that took her brother's football career. Daire doesn't know how to move on from the guilt she feels, so she decides to escape from her problems. She's a mess, impulsive, and trying to figure out what's next for her. My favorite thing about her was her big heart.
Campbell is a mystery. He wants to forget his past and make a better future for himself and his siblings. He thinks he has it all figured out, but being sent after Daire to bring her safely home throws a wrench in his plans. Campbell had been through so much and I loved seeing him reach for the good in life.
Campbell and Daire don't seem like a likely match to most, but their interactions and ability to accept each other for who they are makes them work perfectly. There was a love and tenderness between them that I adored. Even when things got dark, there was a lightness coming from them. I wanted the best for these two.
As an added bonus to Campbell and Daire's romance, I got several cameos from some of my favorite Crownover characters. I loved that I got to see what these characters were up to, but that they didn't take over the book. It was so much fun - even when one or two of the characters might have made me a teensy bit mad. ;)
This book was a great read, whether you're a fan of all of the included series or if you wanted to jump in here. I'm now anxiously awaiting Zowen and Ashton's book.
You can find this review and others like it at A Novel Glimpse .
August 20, 2023
Fell into the series with Son of A Gun - I had no problems following who was who and what was what. This was my first time reading this author and I can say with conviction - just expanded my TBR pile!
I fell into the story from the opening scene. Wonderfully written.
Daire is a bit unsure of who Daire is right now. After the accident that changed her brother's life, and the guilt she still carries, she realizes she does not know who she is. When she disappears on Christmas Eve without a trace her family is left to wonder if she's been kidnapped or worse.
Enter Campbell - her nemesis and the one man who hopefully can bring her home safe
This was a fast-paced, action-packed romance from beginning to end with only occasional moments to catch our breath. Book hangover warning!
The writing was sharp and witty, the author did a great job of developing the characters and their relationships and making me feel like I was smack dab in the middle of it all.
Be prepared for action, steam, betrayal, family, humor, romance, steam (the chemistry between these two is so natural), and more
Daire is a strong and independent woman who is determined to find her own way in the world. Cambell is not her favorite person but there is something about him that calls to her. He seems just as much untethered as her and a the moment he is willing to do anything to keep her safe.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, resulting in a romance that was both tender and passionate. There was something about the way he opened up to Daire and how she blossomed into her own during their little "excursion"
Strong supporting characters that added a lot of depth to the story.
Not sure how I missed this series but I am definitely going back to the beginning.
I fell into the story from the opening scene. Wonderfully written.
Daire is a bit unsure of who Daire is right now. After the accident that changed her brother's life, and the guilt she still carries, she realizes she does not know who she is. When she disappears on Christmas Eve without a trace her family is left to wonder if she's been kidnapped or worse.
Enter Campbell - her nemesis and the one man who hopefully can bring her home safe
This was a fast-paced, action-packed romance from beginning to end with only occasional moments to catch our breath. Book hangover warning!
The writing was sharp and witty, the author did a great job of developing the characters and their relationships and making me feel like I was smack dab in the middle of it all.
Be prepared for action, steam, betrayal, family, humor, romance, steam (the chemistry between these two is so natural), and more
Daire is a strong and independent woman who is determined to find her own way in the world. Cambell is not her favorite person but there is something about him that calls to her. He seems just as much untethered as her and a the moment he is willing to do anything to keep her safe.
The chemistry between them was undeniable, resulting in a romance that was both tender and passionate. There was something about the way he opened up to Daire and how she blossomed into her own during their little "excursion"
Strong supporting characters that added a lot of depth to the story.
Not sure how I missed this series but I am definitely going back to the beginning.
August 17, 2023
An absolute feast of familiar characters…..not just a next generation crossover, but also a pick and mix of all our favourites.
Firstly it’s so wonderful to have Jay back and writing…in fact it’s more than writing, it’s creating a wonderful escape for us. Taking us on a wild journey to places that aren’t really there but feel so real! I love the universe that this author has created…you never quite know where it’s going to take you or how painful it’s going to be when you get there!!
Daire Archer is an interesting young lady, she’s always been reckless and living up to her name but she was always under the close watch and protection of her loving family. She was never really in the way of harm even if she thought she was being badA!
Campbell is the complete opposite of Daire. He knows exactly how cruel and unforgiving life can be….he’s lived it and seen it!. Throughout some of the most unimaginable scenarios he has had to learn to not only keep himself safe but also be responsible for his family’s safety.
We knew from the previous book that Daire had done a runner….having a bit of a crisis within her own mind she felt undeserving and needed to escape the kindness and support of her family. what she didn’t expect was that Benny would send Campbell to retrieve her! If she thought her life was hard …it was nothing compared to the little road trip she takes into his world!
The relationship between them both develops beautifully as a mutual respect and care is built, they come to rely on each other for support and Daire quickly learns that there is so much more to this darkly brooding young man.
There is always wisdom and intelligence within the pages of Jay’s stories. Moments we can relate to, whether it be as a parent, a friend or just ourselves. The truth in her writing is so sincere and thought provoking.
There isn’t a book by Jay Crownover that I have read and not come away with a new sense of understanding or at the very least empathy for whatever her characters have been through.
I loved this, I loved all the familiar characters but also the skill in creating Daire and Campbell’s story, whilst incorporating so many others.
Then we have another little treat at the end with a hint to the final book in this next gen series.
Firstly it’s so wonderful to have Jay back and writing…in fact it’s more than writing, it’s creating a wonderful escape for us. Taking us on a wild journey to places that aren’t really there but feel so real! I love the universe that this author has created…you never quite know where it’s going to take you or how painful it’s going to be when you get there!!
Daire Archer is an interesting young lady, she’s always been reckless and living up to her name but she was always under the close watch and protection of her loving family. She was never really in the way of harm even if she thought she was being badA!
Campbell is the complete opposite of Daire. He knows exactly how cruel and unforgiving life can be….he’s lived it and seen it!. Throughout some of the most unimaginable scenarios he has had to learn to not only keep himself safe but also be responsible for his family’s safety.
We knew from the previous book that Daire had done a runner….having a bit of a crisis within her own mind she felt undeserving and needed to escape the kindness and support of her family. what she didn’t expect was that Benny would send Campbell to retrieve her! If she thought her life was hard …it was nothing compared to the little road trip she takes into his world!
The relationship between them both develops beautifully as a mutual respect and care is built, they come to rely on each other for support and Daire quickly learns that there is so much more to this darkly brooding young man.
There is always wisdom and intelligence within the pages of Jay’s stories. Moments we can relate to, whether it be as a parent, a friend or just ourselves. The truth in her writing is so sincere and thought provoking.
There isn’t a book by Jay Crownover that I have read and not come away with a new sense of understanding or at the very least empathy for whatever her characters have been through.
I loved this, I loved all the familiar characters but also the skill in creating Daire and Campbell’s story, whilst incorporating so many others.
Then we have another little treat at the end with a hint to the final book in this next gen series.
August 16, 2023
Blink blink......well let me preface this review with stating that I did not expect it to go any direction it ended up going.
Last book, we saw some icyness between Daire and Campbell that would leave you to believe their story would be enemies to lovers but oooooh no, Crownover delivers a forced (reluctantly chosen) proximity trope of The Point’s baddest good boy meets The Marked Men’s not-so-princess Princess. Ive never read a man who is more standoffish teddy bear than Campbell and I love him for it.
Crownover always does a fantastic job of writing deeply flawed characters and Daire is no exception. Dealing heavily with anxiety and depression is no light topic but Daire’s struggles with accepting that part of herself are more endearing than heartbreaking. She’s young and chaotic and the mental struggles she faces don’t halter that part of herself as she faces self-discovery.
Campbell.....god how can someone be so transparent and yet give no details! My memory isn’t the greatest so I don’t have a huge impact from his first appearance in Crownover’s older series but her ability to weave in already told stories truly helped paint the dark world readers know as The Point. That boy has a heart of gold dipped in black tar. He is the essential morally grey MMC who romance readers will love.
A splash of other characters (like A LOT y’all) are scattered throughout and I wont spoil my favorite cameo but oooooweeee that ending threw me for a LOOP!
Thank you Wordsmith Publicity for the chance to review!
Last book, we saw some icyness between Daire and Campbell that would leave you to believe their story would be enemies to lovers but oooooh no, Crownover delivers a forced (reluctantly chosen) proximity trope of The Point’s baddest good boy meets The Marked Men’s not-so-princess Princess. Ive never read a man who is more standoffish teddy bear than Campbell and I love him for it.
Crownover always does a fantastic job of writing deeply flawed characters and Daire is no exception. Dealing heavily with anxiety and depression is no light topic but Daire’s struggles with accepting that part of herself are more endearing than heartbreaking. She’s young and chaotic and the mental struggles she faces don’t halter that part of herself as she faces self-discovery.
Campbell.....god how can someone be so transparent and yet give no details! My memory isn’t the greatest so I don’t have a huge impact from his first appearance in Crownover’s older series but her ability to weave in already told stories truly helped paint the dark world readers know as The Point. That boy has a heart of gold dipped in black tar. He is the essential morally grey MMC who romance readers will love.
A splash of other characters (like A LOT y’all) are scattered throughout and I wont spoil my favorite cameo but oooooweeee that ending threw me for a LOOP!
Thank you Wordsmith Publicity for the chance to review!
August 21, 2023
I guess they can’t all be winners. I absolutely love Jay. Unfortunately, I did not love this book. I struggled to get through it. In the authors note at the end of the book, she said she knew some would have a problem with to many characters from other books popping up. And that is one of my biggest complaints. I enjoy little glimpses of past characters in books. But this one felt like there was just way too many. It took me out of the story I think. It said this could be read as a stand alone. I don’t believe that to be true. People would be lost. I’ve read every Jay book there is and I was overwhelmed with all the people.
There was not enough focus on Campbell and Daire. I honestly didn’t care for Daire. There were a few moments I felt something for her that wasn’t annoyance, but it never got to far. Maybe if we had more of just her and Campbell I would have seen some growth from her, but I didn’t get it, not like I feel we got from Remy in the previous book. To me she just continued to act impulsive and bratty.
With that said.
Will I read Zowens book? Probably.
Here goes with what I am sure will be an unpopular opinion.
Will I be happy if that one is the last of any Marked/Point/ALL previous characters? Also, yes, YES!!!
Jay is an amazing writer, but I am ready for these characters to be done, put to bed, finished, and move on to something new.
Happy reading you all.
There was not enough focus on Campbell and Daire. I honestly didn’t care for Daire. There were a few moments I felt something for her that wasn’t annoyance, but it never got to far. Maybe if we had more of just her and Campbell I would have seen some growth from her, but I didn’t get it, not like I feel we got from Remy in the previous book. To me she just continued to act impulsive and bratty.
With that said.
Will I read Zowens book? Probably.
Here goes with what I am sure will be an unpopular opinion.
Will I be happy if that one is the last of any Marked/Point/ALL previous characters? Also, yes, YES!!!
Jay is an amazing writer, but I am ready for these characters to be done, put to bed, finished, and move on to something new.
Happy reading you all.
September 13, 2023
Dans ce roman j'ai retrouvé la plume qui m'avait tant séduite avec Rule, à savoir des héros imparfaits et crédibles. Je comprendrai que cela ne plaise pas à tous les lecteurs car le roman est assez lent et met en scène un bon nombre de personnages de ses autres romans que l'on ne connait pas forcément et qui peuvent déstabiliser un peu. Mais j'ai retrouvé en l'héroïne le même caractère que celui de son père, Rule, un peu excessif. Elle est, sous ses airs de princesse, une héroïne badass et prête à tout, une fois qu'elle se sera acceptée telle qu'elle est.
J'ai bien aimé retrouver également le côté sombre de The Point, cet endroit un peu malsain, créé de toutes pièces par l'auteure. Et Campbell colle parfaitement dans ce décor. C'est un héros qui en impose malgré son jeune âge. Il a vécu une enfance tragique et s'en est tout juste sorti grâce à des hommes peu fréquentables. Il est d'ailleurs encore en train de subir les conséquences de son passé. Sa notion de la famille se résume à sa soeur et ses petits frères, qu'il a toujours protégés comme il a pu.
Campbell est le premier étonné par son attirance pour Daire et il cherche comment la gérer et comment l'intégrer dans sa vie faite de dangers. Surtout qu'il sait que la famille de la jeune fille est extrêmement présente et n'hésitera pas à lui faire payer s'il fait le moindre faux pas avec elle.
Voilà deux héros qui se tirent vers le haut et s'entraident et qui s'acceptent malgré leurs différences.
J'ai bien aimé retrouver également le côté sombre de The Point, cet endroit un peu malsain, créé de toutes pièces par l'auteure. Et Campbell colle parfaitement dans ce décor. C'est un héros qui en impose malgré son jeune âge. Il a vécu une enfance tragique et s'en est tout juste sorti grâce à des hommes peu fréquentables. Il est d'ailleurs encore en train de subir les conséquences de son passé. Sa notion de la famille se résume à sa soeur et ses petits frères, qu'il a toujours protégés comme il a pu.
Campbell est le premier étonné par son attirance pour Daire et il cherche comment la gérer et comment l'intégrer dans sa vie faite de dangers. Surtout qu'il sait que la famille de la jeune fille est extrêmement présente et n'hésitera pas à lui faire payer s'il fait le moindre faux pas avec elle.
Voilà deux héros qui se tirent vers le haut et s'entraident et qui s'acceptent malgré leurs différences.
August 20, 2023
In Jay Crownover’s third book of the Forever Marked series, Son of a Gun, this opposites attract story is an intriguing story of self-discovery and exploration. Readers will find that the themes of acceptance, forgiveness, and unconditional love are key to true happiness. Like her father, Daire Archer is an artist who struggles with PTSD after living an easy life and causing some family trauma, while Campbell is a man of mystery and battles overcoming a troubled past, deals with the outcomes of surviving a traumatic childhood. And when the two embark on a journey chasing different dreams, they find their paths lead to the same outcome.
This next generation of Marked Men is quickly becoming an outstanding series on its own; the depth and growth of the characters mixed with a spot-on connection will keep you engaged, and I cannot wait for more stories in the Archer world.
Overall, I found this opposites attract romance to be engaging with great world building. I reviewed an early copy voluntarily, and look forward to future novels in the series by the author.
This next generation of Marked Men is quickly becoming an outstanding series on its own; the depth and growth of the characters mixed with a spot-on connection will keep you engaged, and I cannot wait for more stories in the Archer world.
Overall, I found this opposites attract romance to be engaging with great world building. I reviewed an early copy voluntarily, and look forward to future novels in the series by the author.
August 12, 2023
Holy wow. This is an EXCELLENT intertwining of Archers and The Point. Yes, we’ve had some before now, but this? Oh, this is everything you never knew you needed. Daire and Campbell may seem like complete opposites. He’s grumpy and gruff and gritty. She’s sunshine and fairy dust and facetious games. But there’s far more beneath the surface for both of them than you’d ever guess. Campbell wants to belong, while Daire wants to escape to find herself. He thinks he doesn’t want to help the girl, while she knows she wants to follow him anywhere. And together, they may very well be the eventual future of Race’s kingdom.
I absolutely love how Jay doesn’t shy away from making us angry with prior characters we love. She does it for good reason and also brings us back toward understanding exactly why they’ve reacted how the have. She also reminds us that while we adore all of these characters, they are so close to human that of course they’ll stumble and make some mistakes. But it’s all in how they also redeem themselves and those around them. Campbell and Daire are just perfect together with their grit and guts and I wouldn’t want their tale to go any other way.
I absolutely love how Jay doesn’t shy away from making us angry with prior characters we love. She does it for good reason and also brings us back toward understanding exactly why they’ve reacted how the have. She also reminds us that while we adore all of these characters, they are so close to human that of course they’ll stumble and make some mistakes. But it’s all in how they also redeem themselves and those around them. Campbell and Daire are just perfect together with their grit and guts and I wouldn’t want their tale to go any other way.
August 12, 2023
Holy wow. This is an EXCELLENT intertwining of Archers and The Point. Yes, we’ve had some before now, but this? Oh, this is everything you never knew you needed. Daire and Campbell may seem like complete opposites. He’s grumpy and gruff and gritty. She’s sunshine and fairy dust and facetious games. But there’s far more beneath the surface for both of them than you’d ever guess. Campbell wants to belong, while Daire wants to escape to find herself. He thinks he doesn’t want to help the girl, while she knows she wants to follow him anywhere. And together, they may very well be the eventual future of Race’s kingdom.
I absolutely love how Jay doesn’t shy away from making us angry with prior characters we love. She does it for good reason and also brings us back toward understanding exactly why they’ve reacted how the have. She also reminds us that while we adore all of these characters, they are so close to human that of course they’ll stumble and make some mistakes. But it’s all in how they also redeem themselves and those around them. Campbell and Daire are just perfect together with their grit and guts and I wouldn’t want their tale to go any other way.
I absolutely love how Jay doesn’t shy away from making us angry with prior characters we love. She does it for good reason and also brings us back toward understanding exactly why they’ve reacted how the have. She also reminds us that while we adore all of these characters, they are so close to human that of course they’ll stumble and make some mistakes. But it’s all in how they also redeem themselves and those around them. Campbell and Daire are just perfect together with their grit and guts and I wouldn’t want their tale to go any other way.
August 14, 2023
Son of a Gun features Daire & Campbell - two characters that we met in the previous Forever Marked novel who have always had A LOT of tension between each other. When Daire runs away during the holidays, Campbell is tasked with finding her and keeping her safe. Daire’s desire to find herself and Campbell’s desire to keep the people he holds close safe creates an interesting journey. The characters’ personal growth was a huge reason as to why I enjoyed the novel so much. The novel also includes some of my favorite tropes like enemies to lovers, found family, and grumpy x sunshine.
I have always loved the Marked Men series, but I have yet to read The Point series yet & this novel definitely had me interested in reading more to understand the deeply complicated world that Campbell is a part of.
Definitely would recommend Jay Crownover’s full Marked collection!
Thank you Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC to review!
I have always loved the Marked Men series, but I have yet to read The Point series yet & this novel definitely had me interested in reading more to understand the deeply complicated world that Campbell is a part of.
Definitely would recommend Jay Crownover’s full Marked collection!
Thank you Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC to review!
August 18, 2023
Now, I haven’t read The Point series by Crownover, I think I tried the first one on audio but couldn’t get into it, I need to go back and try reading it. But her Marked Men series is one of my all time favorite series, some of my favorite characters I wish were real so I could hang out with them. And getting this second generation has been so wonderful with the first two books, and this one did not disappoint either! It also made me more likely to go back and pick up her other series so that I know more about the characters we met, or I met for the first time in this book.
This story of course got dark because of its crossover/connection with The Point series compared to even some of the darker parts of other Marked Men books. Campbell definitely had that dark edge, one he kept hidden. But he also was loyal to those he loved and respected. He was able to go to the dark place for those who wished at times they could go there. He and Daire had a good connection from the start, for him that was something he hadn’t really felt before, and so it was a great story following him through that.
I was a bit frustrated with Daire’s mom though. I mean, how did she not see that the way she was telling Daire to stay away from Campbell and not giving him a chance was exactly the way both her parents, and even Rule’s parents had tried to warn her away from him? I liked how we got a bit with what was going on in her life though even, with her career and where she was at in her life. Especially tying back to Ry’s accident from his book and how it led to where Daire felt at the beginning of the book.
Daire was such a great character too. The way she met and accepted or kind of even just fit in with not only the more dangerous people in Campbell’s life, but I loved seeing her with his family as well. And YAY for the fact that Campbell’s brothers and sister lived with a former football player in my hometown of Kansas City! My KC Chiefs loving self was thrilled reading about that and imagining if only these were real people in my town.
I loved this next generation as I mentioned before. I understand how the author worries that these aren’t getting quite the same amount of support as the original series. I wonder how much that even though these are standalones, those of us who love the characters and are so invested are needing to do more promoting and getting these into the hands other readers out there who maybe have not read her books, because I hope to get as many more as she wants to write!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
This story of course got dark because of its crossover/connection with The Point series compared to even some of the darker parts of other Marked Men books. Campbell definitely had that dark edge, one he kept hidden. But he also was loyal to those he loved and respected. He was able to go to the dark place for those who wished at times they could go there. He and Daire had a good connection from the start, for him that was something he hadn’t really felt before, and so it was a great story following him through that.
I was a bit frustrated with Daire’s mom though. I mean, how did she not see that the way she was telling Daire to stay away from Campbell and not giving him a chance was exactly the way both her parents, and even Rule’s parents had tried to warn her away from him? I liked how we got a bit with what was going on in her life though even, with her career and where she was at in her life. Especially tying back to Ry’s accident from his book and how it led to where Daire felt at the beginning of the book.
Daire was such a great character too. The way she met and accepted or kind of even just fit in with not only the more dangerous people in Campbell’s life, but I loved seeing her with his family as well. And YAY for the fact that Campbell’s brothers and sister lived with a former football player in my hometown of Kansas City! My KC Chiefs loving self was thrilled reading about that and imagining if only these were real people in my town.
I loved this next generation as I mentioned before. I understand how the author worries that these aren’t getting quite the same amount of support as the original series. I wonder how much that even though these are standalones, those of us who love the characters and are so invested are needing to do more promoting and getting these into the hands other readers out there who maybe have not read her books, because I hope to get as many more as she wants to write!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
September 13, 2023
This was my first Jay Crownover book and i really liked it!! I was not aware about anything or anyone in the Marked Men world and I was still able to read the book without feeling confused.
Daire and Campbell were such an interesting couple, they both had their quirks and very sides personalities and I felt like they complimented each other very well.
I’m sad that i didn’t connect with them as much as I hoped, i feel like maybe I need a little more romance or something but overall it was still a very enjoyable story!
I definitely want to go an read all the series now, loved the authors writing.
Daire and Campbell were such an interesting couple, they both had their quirks and very sides personalities and I felt like they complimented each other very well.
I’m sad that i didn’t connect with them as much as I hoped, i feel like maybe I need a little more romance or something but overall it was still a very enjoyable story!
I definitely want to go an read all the series now, loved the authors writing.
September 30, 2023
I loved this series! I waited so long to start it, but each book has been better than the last one. Daire was also critical to the story in the first 2 books, so I was thrilled when she got her own book, and it did not disappoint! She grew up and had to face the consequences of her actions, something that she always avoided before. Campbell was from the wrong side of the tracks but had a strong family bond, so he fit right in with the "Marked Men", but he still had to prove himself to Daire and everyone else.
August 17, 2023
Hands down, AMAZING!!
I am a long-time reader of Jay's, and I have read all her books prior to this one. This book was such a sweet treat of characters! I absolutely loved Campbell and Daires' story. It's a story of imperfection and brutal honesty. They both embark on a road trip of self-discovery with give and take! I absolutely loved and devoured this story!! It makes me want to reread all of her books just to be reminded of how much I love her book world. I never want to leave, and I want to be friends with everyone!!
I 100% recommend this book! It was heart-wrenching in the most beautiful way.
I was gifted this ARC in exchange for my honest review by Jay Crownover and Wordsmith publishing! I am grateful to have the chance to be one of the first to read and review! 💚
I am a long-time reader of Jay's, and I have read all her books prior to this one. This book was such a sweet treat of characters! I absolutely loved Campbell and Daires' story. It's a story of imperfection and brutal honesty. They both embark on a road trip of self-discovery with give and take! I absolutely loved and devoured this story!! It makes me want to reread all of her books just to be reminded of how much I love her book world. I never want to leave, and I want to be friends with everyone!!
I 100% recommend this book! It was heart-wrenching in the most beautiful way.
I was gifted this ARC in exchange for my honest review by Jay Crownover and Wordsmith publishing! I am grateful to have the chance to be one of the first to read and review! 💚
October 26, 2023
i’m not sure what’s missing from this spinoff series. but the magic of the initial marked men characters are gone. this is tragic because they’re still iconic. the chapter to epilogue transition felt abrupt, which also made me feel off.
February 5, 2024
I always love a Jay book but this one I was wondering how it was going to work. She did an amazing job colliding two worlds together. Everything about Darie and Campbell just click.
“She didn’t run just so she could find her self; She’s been searching for you. You’re the one Campbell. Don’t make her regret being patient.”
“ I want to be worth the wait”
“She didn’t run just so she could find her self; She’s been searching for you. You’re the one Campbell. Don’t make her regret being patient.”
“ I want to be worth the wait”
August 12, 2023
Daire feels like she can’t live up to her father. She not good enough and never will be. So she does what she thinks is best and runs away. Campbell is set out to find her and bring her back.
Through the trip she discovers herself and feelings evolve.
This book wasn’t one of my favorites but I still enjoyed it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Through the trip she discovers herself and feelings evolve.
This book wasn’t one of my favorites but I still enjoyed it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
September 3, 2023
Fantastic
Jay Crown over is back and this book made it well worth the wait. I love these second gen books and Daire's story is fantastic. I highly recommend it.
Jay Crown over is back and this book made it well worth the wait. I love these second gen books and Daire's story is fantastic. I highly recommend it.
August 17, 2023
Review by Trinette Dungee
Jay Crownover’s latest book combines her Marked Men and The Point series. She’s combined her most lovable series with her darkest series and boy did it work!! This book gives you the pairing of Daire Archer and Campbell. Daire comes from a privileged background, and Campbell comes from literally nothing. While they feel they absolutely nothing in common, they have more than they could have imagined.
There was a lot, and I mean A LOT to unpack in this book. I barely know where or how to start. The easiest thing to do is say AMAZING storyline and give some background on the characters.
Still struggling to come to terms with being responsible for the accident that changed her brother Ry’s life, Daire decides to escape her life to “find out who she is”; but as usual, she makes and impulsive decision that doesn’t have the best outcome. Having basically lived a sheltered life, Daire’s more than a little naïve to how the real world actually works. While she wants to be looked at and treated like an adult, she’s notorious for making childish decisions. Which is the case when she decides to run away, on Christmas Eve, in the middle of a Denver snowstorm and finds herself stranded.
The last person she expects to be her savior is Campbell; especially when there is no love lost between the two of them. Because of her impulsiveness, and childish behaviors I wasn’t a huge fan of Daire’s in the beginning, but as time went on, I started to understand her behavior. In a nutshell, aside from dealing with some mental health issues, Daire was also struggling with the changes that were happening in her family dynamic. Specifically, her brother’s ability to move on with his life after tragedy.
I was pushing my brother away because I didn’t know how to live without him. I didn’t know how to adjust to not being as important to him as he was to me.
Daire’s greatest quality is her love for her family, and the big heart she has that’s always in the right place but not used with the best decisions.
I wasn’t ever going to be the hero who went out of his way to save the princess. Just like Benny said, while I’d always wanted to be one, I never quite managed to pull it off. I was a pretty terrible guy through and through, and I could corrupt the princess, that was a mission I would never fail.
But was he really? You know the saying, “Sometimes good people do bad things”? Well, that’s how I saw Campbell. It’s very cliché-ish, but the best way to describe Campbell is, mysterious. He truly is. Even Daire admits the amount of time she’s known him, she doesn’t know if Campbell is his first name or last name. Turns out, neither does he. At first glance he’s intimidating and dark, but the more you get to know him, you see his heart is huge. But it’s only reserved for a select few people. This is a guy who basically grew up in the armpit of hell. His mother died when he was young, and he suspects his dirtbag father murdered her. His main objective is to protect his younger siblings and keep them as far away from his father as possible. Every horrible thing he’s ever done, and he’s done some horrible things, was to keep them save and to survive. Unlike Daire, I was a fan of Campbell’s from the door.
I couldn’t even tell Daire how old I was if she asked. My father wasn’t exactly keen on birthdays. If I had to guess, I was somewhere around twenty -three or twenty-four, but who knew.
My heart broke for Campbell at that moment. Not only was a mystery to everyone else, but he was also a mystery to himself as well.
So, Campbell is tasked with not only rescuing Daire during the snowstorm, but taking her where ever she was trying to go, and getting her to realize she needed to go home. During the travels the two get to see other sides of one another and gain better perspectives on what makes them tick. Of course, there’s that good ole sexual tension and the inevitable realization that they actually care for each other. The slow burn in this book works very well in this book. What I really liked about the two characters coming together was the protectiveness they developed for each other. I also appreciated while there was happy ending so to speak, it wasn’t wrapped in a nice, neat bow. These were two very flawed individuals in the beginning of this book, and they were still flawed in the end.
I was very nervous going into this book because it had been a while since I’d read each series so I wasn’t sure I would remember who was who, because there were a lot of returning characters; but the storyline and the placement of characters came back to me immediately. Although this is considered a standalone, I would definitely recommend reading each series to get a deeper understanding of Daire and Campbell. There is is a tree at the beginning to help you navigate the characters, and at the end a list of what books have what characters.
After reading this latest book, I’m very tempted to do rereads of the previous books (or at least listen to the audiobooks), and I’m not really one to reread.
Jay Crownover’s latest book combines her Marked Men and The Point series. She’s combined her most lovable series with her darkest series and boy did it work!! This book gives you the pairing of Daire Archer and Campbell. Daire comes from a privileged background, and Campbell comes from literally nothing. While they feel they absolutely nothing in common, they have more than they could have imagined.
There was a lot, and I mean A LOT to unpack in this book. I barely know where or how to start. The easiest thing to do is say AMAZING storyline and give some background on the characters.
Still struggling to come to terms with being responsible for the accident that changed her brother Ry’s life, Daire decides to escape her life to “find out who she is”; but as usual, she makes and impulsive decision that doesn’t have the best outcome. Having basically lived a sheltered life, Daire’s more than a little naïve to how the real world actually works. While she wants to be looked at and treated like an adult, she’s notorious for making childish decisions. Which is the case when she decides to run away, on Christmas Eve, in the middle of a Denver snowstorm and finds herself stranded.
The last person she expects to be her savior is Campbell; especially when there is no love lost between the two of them. Because of her impulsiveness, and childish behaviors I wasn’t a huge fan of Daire’s in the beginning, but as time went on, I started to understand her behavior. In a nutshell, aside from dealing with some mental health issues, Daire was also struggling with the changes that were happening in her family dynamic. Specifically, her brother’s ability to move on with his life after tragedy.
I was pushing my brother away because I didn’t know how to live without him. I didn’t know how to adjust to not being as important to him as he was to me.
Daire’s greatest quality is her love for her family, and the big heart she has that’s always in the right place but not used with the best decisions.
I wasn’t ever going to be the hero who went out of his way to save the princess. Just like Benny said, while I’d always wanted to be one, I never quite managed to pull it off. I was a pretty terrible guy through and through, and I could corrupt the princess, that was a mission I would never fail.
But was he really? You know the saying, “Sometimes good people do bad things”? Well, that’s how I saw Campbell. It’s very cliché-ish, but the best way to describe Campbell is, mysterious. He truly is. Even Daire admits the amount of time she’s known him, she doesn’t know if Campbell is his first name or last name. Turns out, neither does he. At first glance he’s intimidating and dark, but the more you get to know him, you see his heart is huge. But it’s only reserved for a select few people. This is a guy who basically grew up in the armpit of hell. His mother died when he was young, and he suspects his dirtbag father murdered her. His main objective is to protect his younger siblings and keep them as far away from his father as possible. Every horrible thing he’s ever done, and he’s done some horrible things, was to keep them save and to survive. Unlike Daire, I was a fan of Campbell’s from the door.
I couldn’t even tell Daire how old I was if she asked. My father wasn’t exactly keen on birthdays. If I had to guess, I was somewhere around twenty -three or twenty-four, but who knew.
My heart broke for Campbell at that moment. Not only was a mystery to everyone else, but he was also a mystery to himself as well.
So, Campbell is tasked with not only rescuing Daire during the snowstorm, but taking her where ever she was trying to go, and getting her to realize she needed to go home. During the travels the two get to see other sides of one another and gain better perspectives on what makes them tick. Of course, there’s that good ole sexual tension and the inevitable realization that they actually care for each other. The slow burn in this book works very well in this book. What I really liked about the two characters coming together was the protectiveness they developed for each other. I also appreciated while there was happy ending so to speak, it wasn’t wrapped in a nice, neat bow. These were two very flawed individuals in the beginning of this book, and they were still flawed in the end.
I was very nervous going into this book because it had been a while since I’d read each series so I wasn’t sure I would remember who was who, because there were a lot of returning characters; but the storyline and the placement of characters came back to me immediately. Although this is considered a standalone, I would definitely recommend reading each series to get a deeper understanding of Daire and Campbell. There is is a tree at the beginning to help you navigate the characters, and at the end a list of what books have what characters.
After reading this latest book, I’m very tempted to do rereads of the previous books (or at least listen to the audiobooks), and I’m not really one to reread.
August 23, 2023
Je suis fan des romans de Jay Crownover depuis la traduction des "Marked Men" et Rule fait partie de mes chouchous avec Booker. Donc, autant vous dire que quand j'ai lu que le dernier qu'elle a écrit "Son of gun" mettait en scène la fille de Rule et Shaw, Daire mais aussi, Campbell, le jeune garçon que Booker et Karsen avait recueilli à la fin de leur roman, j'étais plus qu'enchantée et je n'ai pas été déçue. Ce roman a un lien avec les deux précédents car Daire se sentait coupable de l'accident qui a coûté sa place en NHL à son frère et Campbell est arrivé pour aider Hyde dans le tome 2 (je vous mettrai les liens des deux premiers tomes que j'ai aussi chroniqués) Soyons clairs, dans ce tome 2, ces deux-là ne s'appréciaient pas et avaient une relation très tendue. Pourtant, lorsque Daire s'enfuit de chez elle, Benny qu'on a croisé dans la série "The Point" ou les "Bad" en français, qui n'est donc pas vraiment un type bien mais qui est ami avec les Archer, l'envoie à sa recherche : il sait qu'il la retrouvera et Campbell, bien que pas ravi, ne peut lui dire non et à partir de là, tous deux vont faire une sorte de road trip dans leurs passés, apprendre à se connaître et évidemment, tomber amoureux l'un de l'autre MAIS Daire est une Archer, elle a toujours été protégée par ses parents, son frère et tant d'autres tandis que Campbell, lui, a une histoire familiale compliquée et a été élevée en compagnie des enfants de Booker et Karsen (même s'il ne s'est jamais senti comme eux auraient aimé qu'ils le perçoivent) et comme la jeune femme lui avait promis dans l'épilogue, elle l'a aidé à sortir ses frères et soeurs de l'enfer de leur père. Ils sont très différents mais au final pas tant que ça : Daire acceptera-t-elle le jeune homme tel qu'il est réellement? Campbell acceptera-t-il d'aimer, lui qui ne sait pas ce que c'est réellement? Comment pourra-t-il s'intégrer dans le monde de la jeune femme alors que lui vient du côté obscur de la ville? Tous deux ont des familles ou connaissances compliquées qui vont graviter avec leurs lots de surprises mais aussi de menaces et de dangers. Mais j'ai adoré retrouver mes deux couples chouchous et voir ce qu'ils sont devenus.
C'est donc un tome intense, qui est le vrai cross-over entre les Marked Men et les Bad puisqu'on va aussi y recroiser Race : les deux univers se marient parfaitement, même s'ils sont parallèles et elle fait aussi appel à d'autres romans qu'elle a écrits et dont on retrouve les personnages dans ce roman, savamment construit.
Nos deux héros sont très complexes et bien que différents vont finir par se compléter et s'aimer : au contact l'un de l'autre, ils vont se reconstruire, réfléchir et trouver leurs voies. Dare est une jeune femme impulsive comme son père, douée comme lui pour l'art et qui n'hésite pas lorsqu'elle veut agir ou veut quelqu'un, tant pis pour les conséquences. Elle a l'air d'une princesse mais elle a un côté badass qui fait qu'elle surprend non seulement le jeune homme mais aussi ceux qui lui sont proches.
Campbell a grandi dans la violence et même s'il a été protégé par Karsen et Booker, il sait où est sa place et fait tout pour protéger ses frères et soeurs de son père. Mais le jour où sa soeur avec qui il partage la même mère (les autres sont des demi-frères ou demi-soeurs et sont plus jeunes) disparait alors qu'il allait les voir, son ancien monde ressurgit et l'homme adorable qui savait s'occuper du bébé de Hyde, laisse parler qui il est vraiment et comme ceux issus de The Point ou Nowhere, il fait ce qu'il faut pour protéger. Comme les héros de la série Bad, il a un bad-boy et en même temps, il est très attachant.
Comme les précédents, il se termine sur un cliffhanger terrible pour l'un des membres de la nouvelle génération Archer et on déjà hâte de le lire.
Bref, un grand Jay Crownover comme je les aime : à recommander archi-vivement!
chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2023/...
C'est donc un tome intense, qui est le vrai cross-over entre les Marked Men et les Bad puisqu'on va aussi y recroiser Race : les deux univers se marient parfaitement, même s'ils sont parallèles et elle fait aussi appel à d'autres romans qu'elle a écrits et dont on retrouve les personnages dans ce roman, savamment construit.
Nos deux héros sont très complexes et bien que différents vont finir par se compléter et s'aimer : au contact l'un de l'autre, ils vont se reconstruire, réfléchir et trouver leurs voies. Dare est une jeune femme impulsive comme son père, douée comme lui pour l'art et qui n'hésite pas lorsqu'elle veut agir ou veut quelqu'un, tant pis pour les conséquences. Elle a l'air d'une princesse mais elle a un côté badass qui fait qu'elle surprend non seulement le jeune homme mais aussi ceux qui lui sont proches.
Campbell a grandi dans la violence et même s'il a été protégé par Karsen et Booker, il sait où est sa place et fait tout pour protéger ses frères et soeurs de son père. Mais le jour où sa soeur avec qui il partage la même mère (les autres sont des demi-frères ou demi-soeurs et sont plus jeunes) disparait alors qu'il allait les voir, son ancien monde ressurgit et l'homme adorable qui savait s'occuper du bébé de Hyde, laisse parler qui il est vraiment et comme ceux issus de The Point ou Nowhere, il fait ce qu'il faut pour protéger. Comme les héros de la série Bad, il a un bad-boy et en même temps, il est très attachant.
Comme les précédents, il se termine sur un cliffhanger terrible pour l'un des membres de la nouvelle génération Archer et on déjà hâte de le lire.
Bref, un grand Jay Crownover comme je les aime : à recommander archi-vivement!
chronique complète ici : https://solysbooks.blogspot.com/2023/...
August 14, 2023
Son of a Gun: A Marked Men and The Point crossover novel is by far my favorite in this series. And I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know every member of this wild second generation. But there was always something very intriguing about Daire Archer and I knew she deserved a book that would fully explore everything that she has dealt with, especially the aftermath of the horrific car accident suffered by her brother Ry. (His story is told in Fortunate Son and is also a must-read) In fact, much of this book is centered around her guilt and how with the help of the man she would rely on most, she finally finds the Daire she so desperately wants and deserves to be.
The man only known as Campbell was always a mystery to Daire, as she watched him like a hawk as he was a manny of sorts for her cousin Remy and her man Hyde's child. (Their story is featured in Prodigal Son and again, is a total must-read). You'd never think that he would be the one to ultimately save Daire in more ways than one when his life is forever full of subtle danger and uncertainty. But when these two embark on an adventure of sorts after Campbell rescues a snow-stranded Daire on Christmas, no less, both start to come to terms with actions in their past and more importantly, what a future could look like, both together and apart.
Daire lives up to her name over and over again as she starts falling for the mysterious Campbell and his very unconventional family. I loved how she is truly her father's daughter (Rule...le sigh) in both her artistic talent and her restless nature. As she eventually owns up to her missteps, I was very impressed with her burgeoning maturity at handling all that she has caused, especially since her disappearing act did a number on all who treasure her. She's not afraid of expressing herself nor going after what she wants, whether it's Campbell or the internship of her dreams.
Campbell starts to shed a bit of his enigmatic ways as he and Daire's 'roadtrip' provides a chance for someone to really get to know him that isn't a part of his immediate family. It's amazing what he has survived and again, he's an impressive man who might be the only one truly worthy of taming Daire while loving her fiercely. They have chemistry for days with an addicting combo of passion and tenderness that simply can't be beat. I will forever be rooting for them to continue to find their footing with each by the other's side.
We, of course, get enough glimpses of the rest of the Marked Men crew, with cousin Remy the surprising rock for Daire, knowing she's more like her kin than she might have ever thought together with truly heartbreaking reactions from Shaw and Rule, simply trying to understand just how much their little girl has grown up. But it's those special connections that always make these books more than wonderful since not only do we get more moments with beloved characters but we get to witness first-hand just how tightly-knit they all are all these years later.
Although I hadn't read much of Jay Crownover since Rule, within the last couple of years, she has become one of my all-time favorites. She always brings forth her best work with fresh storylines and the very best in rough around the edges kinds of characters. Love stories that are never easy but always worth the extra effort. Now with Daire and Campbell, I'm once again completely enamored with yet another Crownover couple while beyond anxious to see how she handle's Zowen Archer's story next. Especially with how this book ended, I'll be ready to hold on tight once more.
5 huge stars!!
The man only known as Campbell was always a mystery to Daire, as she watched him like a hawk as he was a manny of sorts for her cousin Remy and her man Hyde's child. (Their story is featured in Prodigal Son and again, is a total must-read). You'd never think that he would be the one to ultimately save Daire in more ways than one when his life is forever full of subtle danger and uncertainty. But when these two embark on an adventure of sorts after Campbell rescues a snow-stranded Daire on Christmas, no less, both start to come to terms with actions in their past and more importantly, what a future could look like, both together and apart.
Daire lives up to her name over and over again as she starts falling for the mysterious Campbell and his very unconventional family. I loved how she is truly her father's daughter (Rule...le sigh) in both her artistic talent and her restless nature. As she eventually owns up to her missteps, I was very impressed with her burgeoning maturity at handling all that she has caused, especially since her disappearing act did a number on all who treasure her. She's not afraid of expressing herself nor going after what she wants, whether it's Campbell or the internship of her dreams.
Campbell starts to shed a bit of his enigmatic ways as he and Daire's 'roadtrip' provides a chance for someone to really get to know him that isn't a part of his immediate family. It's amazing what he has survived and again, he's an impressive man who might be the only one truly worthy of taming Daire while loving her fiercely. They have chemistry for days with an addicting combo of passion and tenderness that simply can't be beat. I will forever be rooting for them to continue to find their footing with each by the other's side.
We, of course, get enough glimpses of the rest of the Marked Men crew, with cousin Remy the surprising rock for Daire, knowing she's more like her kin than she might have ever thought together with truly heartbreaking reactions from Shaw and Rule, simply trying to understand just how much their little girl has grown up. But it's those special connections that always make these books more than wonderful since not only do we get more moments with beloved characters but we get to witness first-hand just how tightly-knit they all are all these years later.
Although I hadn't read much of Jay Crownover since Rule, within the last couple of years, she has become one of my all-time favorites. She always brings forth her best work with fresh storylines and the very best in rough around the edges kinds of characters. Love stories that are never easy but always worth the extra effort. Now with Daire and Campbell, I'm once again completely enamored with yet another Crownover couple while beyond anxious to see how she handle's Zowen Archer's story next. Especially with how this book ended, I'll be ready to hold on tight once more.
5 huge stars!!
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